Mota

Mota is a small highland town in the Amara Region of north-western Ethiopia, located in the East Gojjam Zone. It sits in the fertile highlands between Debre Markos and Bahir Dar, with a temperate climate and green, rolling surroundings. The area is known for agriculture, particularly grain and honey production.

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Bahir Dar (BJR IATA), 100 km north, with daily flights from Addis Ababa.

By Car / Road

Mota is on a secondary road between Debre Markos (80 km south) and Bahir Dar (100 km north). Minibuses connect Mota to both towns.

The town is small and walkable.

• Mota Market: A small market serving the surrounding farming villages.

• Highland scenery: The green hills and terraced fields are characteristic of Gojjam.

• Traditional church: An Ethiopian Orthodox church with local architectural style.

• Village walks: The countryside around Mota is ideal for walking tours of rural Ethiopian life.

Simple restaurants in town serve injera, shiro, and tibs.

Coffee is available at small cafes. Bottled water is recommended.

Basic guesthouses from 250 birr.

Honey and local produce at the market.

• Bahir Dar — 100 km north (2–3 hours), Lake Tana and the Blue Nile Falls.
• Debre Markos — 80 km south (1.5 hours), near the Blue Nile Gorge.
• Finote Selam — 30 km north, market town on the Bahir Dar road.